Niche Iran｜Treasures of Qazvin (2) Is there also a Chehel Sotun Palace here?
In the previous article, we mentioned that foreign tourists visiting Iran generally pay more attention to the relics and artifacts from ancient times, as Ancient Persia, Ancient Rome, and Ancient Sassanid have great fame, making one appear cultured when mentioned. In contrast, there is relatively less focus on the dynasties of Iran during the Ming and Qing periods. Qazvin, as the former capital of the Safavid dynasty, is a typical representative city that developed during this period.
Today, let's continue to discuss some of the ancient sites in Qazvin:
1. Chehel Sotun Palace 【Images 3-5】: The World Heritage Site “Chehel Sotun Palace” in Isfahan shares the same name, indicating that the two royal palaces before and after the Safavid dynasty moved the capital shared the same name. This palace in Qazvin was built in the mid-16th century. Although the interior murals are severely damaged, the remaining parts are still very exquisite. The palace also serves as a calligraphy museum, with an entrance fee of about $4, which can actually be bargained down.
2. Nabi Mosque 【Images 6-7】: Built in 1787 during the early Qajar dynasty, it covers a massive area of 14,000 square meters and was constructed to the standards of a royal mosque. The main gate features a unique Guldasta from the Qajar era, which is very rare.
3. Hamdollah Mostowfi Tomb 【Image 8】: The tomb belongs to Hamdollah Mostowfi, a 13th-14th century historian and geographer, equivalent to the Persian version of Ban Gu and Xu Xiake. He served in the court and often traveled around Persia. Born and died in Qazvin, he authored many works and held high esteem among the people. Free admission.
4. Ancient Jameh Mosque 【Images 9-10】: Originally built in the 9th century, the foundation was a Zoroastrian temple. The last expansion and renovation were during the Safavid dynasty.
5. Imamzadeh Hossein 【Images 11-12】: Built during the Safavid dynasty, the tomb belongs to Hossein, the second son of the 8th Imam Reza (buried in Mashhad). He holds a significant religious status in Iran, hence the lavish construction. Free admission.
6. Aminiha Historical House 【Images 13-16】: Located in the city center, its true appearance can only be seen after knocking on the door and entering. Built in 1858 during the mid-Qajar dynasty, the interior features extremely luxurious murals, mirrors, clay sculptures, tile paintings, and stained glass. It is said that the carpets are from that era. There is a large cellar under the hall, giving a strong sense of space, indicating a rather complex practical use. Entrance fee is about $2.5.
In fact, the above is just the tip of the iceberg among many ancient sites. The Russian Orthodox Church (Cantor Church, Image 17), Tomb of the Four Prophets (Image 18), Tehran Gate (Image 19), Darb-e Koushk Gate (Image 20), and many more are worth mentioning. Such an interesting and niche city reminds me of Kerman in southern Iran.